JUST IN: Lagos PDP Governorship Candidate, JANDOR Rejoins APC • Hails Tinubu’s all inclusive leadership approach (see video)
By Oki Samson, Trek Africa Newspaper
The 2023 governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State, Dr. Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran popularly known as Jandor, has officially rejoined the All Progressive Congress (APC) to pursue his political goals, Trek Africa Newspaper can report.
Jandor announced his defection on Monday during a press conference attended by Trek Africa Newspaper at his Ikeja political office in Lagos, two weeks after resigning from the PDP. He attributed his departure to internal crises and a lack of discipline within the opposition party, particularly its failure to address anti-party activities during the 2023 elections.
“Our experience in the PDP was one of working with habitual political saboteurs,” he stated. “But we have chosen to prioritize our future over grievances from the past.”
He further explained that after extensive consultations with family, political associates, elder statesmen, and Lagosians who share his vision, he decided to align with a party focused on winning elections and governance.
“We have resolved to return to the All Progressive Congress (APC), a party that prioritizes electoral success for its members, regardless of who is on the ballot. I want to say that there is a Yoruba adage that says, if a woman has not tried two husbands, she would not know which one is better,” Jandor stated.
Before making his decision, he engaged in discussions with political leaders across various parties, including the Social Democratic Party (SDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), and Young Progressive Party (YPP).
Addressing concerns about his initial exit from the APC, he cited a Yoruba proverb emphasizing the importance of experience in making informed choices.
“In the APC, leadership is structured—even if one disagrees with certain decisions, the goal is always to secure victory for the party and its members,” he remarked. “Conversely, the Lagos PDP has a leader who repeatedly undermines his own party, dashing the hopes of members and followers. We have chosen the better path.”
Jandor emphasized that his return to the ruling party was a well-considered decision rooted in his commitment to Lagos’ progress.
He also acknowledged the role of President Bola Tinubu’s Chief of Staff, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, and Tinubu’s son, Seyi Tinubu, in persuading him to rejoin the APC.
“I extend my gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for recognizing our contributions to democracy. I also appreciate the persistent efforts of Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, who has encouraged our return for over a year,” he stated.
Jandor further revealed that following his resignation from the PDP, Seyi Tinubu personally reached out, urging him to return “home” to the APC.
Reassuring his supporters, Jandor stressed that his decision was in Lagos’ best interest and called on them to embrace this new political chapter.
“We remain committed to service, integrity, and progress. Together, we will continue to advocate for a better Lagos for both present and future generations,” he concluded.
